Obstacle

Definition

Obstacle refers to a thing that blocks one's way or prevents or hinders progress.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɑbstəkəl/
• Respelling: OB-stuh-kuhl (with "OB" as in "obey," "stuh" as in "stuck," and "kuhl" as in "cool")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɒbstəkəl/
• Respelling: OB-stuh-kuhl (similar to American English, with "OB" as in "obey," "stuh" as in "stuck," and "kuhl" as in "cool")

In both dialects, "obstacle" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "OB." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "OB-stuh-kuhl."

Etymology

The word "obstacle" is derived from the Latin "obstaculum," from "obstare" which means "to stand in the way." "Obstare" itself comes from "ob-" (against) + "stare" (to stand).

Derivatives

• Obstacle-ridden
• Obstacle-laden
• Obstacle-free
• Obstacle-course
• Obstruction (related term with similar meaning)

Synonyms

• Impediment
• Hindrance
• Barrier

Antonyms

• Aid
• Facilitator
• Passage

Usage

"Obstacle" denotes a challenge or a barrier that stands in the way of progress or achievement.

• She overcame numerous obstacles to achieve her dreams.
• The fallen tree was an obstacle that blocked the road for hours.

Related Terms

• Barrier
• Blockage
• Hurdle

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Physical barrier: A tangible thing that stands in the way or hinders movement.‍
• Example: The rocks on the trail posed an obstacle to the hikers.

• Abstract challenge: A difficulty or problem that needs to be resolved or dealt with in order to progress or achieve something.‍
• Example: Lack of funding is a major obstacle to the project's completion.

• Race or training challenge: An apparatus or setup designed to challenge participants in a race or training exercise, often in the military or sports contexts.‍
• Example: The soldiers trained by running through an obstacle course.